Making roasted tomato soup, making dog treats, planting paper whites 

Oh Linda , my mother always said the older you get the faster time goes ! I'm 74 and boy was she right !!! WHY is it that way ???? I appreciate this video so much. Those white tulips are gorgeous and love what you did with those paperwhites in the basket . I love tomato soup and yours looked so delicious !! Lucky Willow to have a mama like you. You are a wealth of great ideas for us to try, thank you. !

Am I the only one that didn’t know plastic wrap could go in the oven without melting or leeching chemicals?

The donuts in the background look much more appealing than the smoothie. 😁

I loved your thoughts at the end about January. It was so calming spending a snow day in your beautiful kitchen!

“I’m turning into my mother…” Gotta love it

My mother always said the same thing…the older you get the faster the time goes by…. Now I will be 80 on February 29th (Leap Year). And it is so very true. I loved this video. I still love my home, decorating for the seasons, and cleaning and organizing. Only now I a really trying to purge in a big way. Not easy for someone who loves to change things and decorate. ❤😊

Was waiting for you to catch the sticker on that pepper!

Gearing up for the impending week with two teenage boys, one with special needs, I can not tell you how much your videos provide the calm that is needed before the chaos begins. Calm elegance. Is that an actual thing ? Well it is now. You've created it. And I can't thank you enough.

Lovely video Linda thank you. I agree with you about January. And I also share your goals about trying to make the most of each day, each month, each season. The older we get the more we realize what a priviledge it is to be alive and face every new day whatever it brings.

You have such a calming voice. I really enjoyed this episode. Looking forward to more.

The homemade dog treats approved by Willow are now on my "to do" list for my dog.

I am a kindred spirit! (I was different as a child also! )Pre-teen I always rearranged the furniture on our vacation rentals and foraged for natural stuff around for decorating the mantle, etc. mom let me do my room and people always came in and their eyes popped. I share your love of thrifting, consignment and reusing. We have an old craftsman bungalow and have been remodeling/improving for 30 years, as our hands and budget allows. I’ve learned, self taught lots of skills in the process.

Use those bay leaves! Pot roast, stew and the best pork roast. Make 1/2” slits across the top of roast, insert a whole allspice and 1/2 bay leaf in each. S, P and paprika. Roast. My family’s favorite.

I love January it’s the best month to sit back, relax and reset.

I added meat purée (baby food jar) to my dog biscuits for my black lab Riley. He loved them. 💕

Tomato soup with a toasted cheese. Yum ! I too enjoy embracing each month of the year . I keep the book Simple Abundance A Daybook of Comfort and Joy by Sarah Ban Breathnach at hand and reread from it each day . It always is enlightening.

Thank you ,Linda,this was really inspirational and needed. Big hug to Willow.

Same way I do tomato soup, minus the plastic wrap. Delicious! I also add feta cheese. Like Trader Joe’s tomato-feta soup! 🎉

I love cozy Winter snow days too! Willow loves her treats, she is so adorable!

Hi Linda, I love that you use Teddy Peanut butter. I grew up in Everett, Massachusetts, where the factory used to be, and on a windy day, you could smell that delicious peanut butter 🥜. What wonderful memories. I have started to make our sweet dogs homemade dog treats as well. They're so easy to make, less expensive and better for them. That's a win, win, win if you ask me. Have a lovely day. 🐶❤

January is my birthday month and this year I turned 65. And you are so right. The older you get the quicker time flies. As always I love your videos. They are so creative and inspiring!!!!! Thank you!

Good morning Linda ...I want to thank you for this video, because I'm going to heed your advice and take these January and February days and use them to refresh my soul.. I am definitely not a winter girl, however, I will take this time to refresh, to nest, to do some house cleaning, and craft and cook, and dream of summer! I have forced bulbs before but I have never forced forsythia and I think I might try it this year....and I agree with you ...there is nothing like a beautiful vase of tulips in the dead of winter! Thanks again!💕💕

Coziest video! We really appreciate the work you put into sharing these videos. Looking forward to more. 💛😊

I look forward to your videos each week. So educational and entertaining. I appreciate that you don't hide your mishaps. Keeps it real and fri Just love Willow too.

Parchment paper will work good too in place of plastic wrap

I bake my Aussie doddle Finn much the same cookie except l use oatmeal flour (Finn can't tolerate rice) ,no water added though. The treats come out very crunchy and can be stored in a jar and if you like frozen and take out a few at a time. But with my boy ,they go pretty quickly 😊🐶🐾 Pumpkin Oatmeal Dog Treats 5 cups of oatmeal flour or whatever flour your pup's dietary needs are 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling 2 large eggs 1/2 cup of peanut butter ( no sugar) Or if you're a no peanut household 1/2 cup of applesauce Optional breath freshener 1 tablespoon of dried parsley or 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley Preheat oven 300F Gind oats in a food processor add eggs, peanut butter or apple sauce and pumpkin Process until the mixture is thick somewhat coarse cookie dough Roll into balls 1-2 tablespoons flatten with your floured hand or floured glass Bake 45 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the treat you want them hard and crunchy but not burnt . 9 calories per cookie Cool and give your beautiful pups a ( hopefully) a treat they will enjoy and you feel good about giving ❤

I'm with you, Linda. I love January (winter in particular) and try to remind myself to slow down, take it easy and not rush into anything anymore. I'm actually sad January has come to an end as this month always seems to go by so quickly. Spring will be here before you know it and time goes by too fast as it is. I love snowy days and taking the time to enjoy being at home reading, catching up on some organizing or baking/cooking up something delicious. Thank you for the idea for the dog treats. My step-daughter has a new rescue puppy that she's training and always has those expensive treats on her, and thank you for the cozy video. Happy New Year!

Good morning Linda, Love starting my morning with "life" with Linda. Didn't know about the plastic on the pan for the oven. Love the basket for the paper whites, thought having them lower would then use the sides to help hold them up? But I guess not. Yes, snow days are great. Congratulations on getting a Warehouse with office! So exciting. Can't wait to try the doggie treats for my Doodle Bentley, I will make sure to tell him it is from Willow. Have a great day and enjoy the peace of your snow day. Thank you for all you do and pass on to us.

I’ll watch anything you produce, Linda. You are the best!

Another enjoyable Sunday morning ☕ seeing Linda in the kitchen and sharing a welcomed mix of fun items for her viewers. Looking forward to March and knowing more about the new business, and " work Wednesday's " sounds like great news 👍 So glad Willow enjoyed your natural homemade treats 🐕 Blessings Linda ☮ have a fun week.😊 love the white tulips 🌷 🌷🤍

I use that same recipe for my doggie. However, I have to substitute the egg for 1/4 c applesauce mine is allergic to chicken and eggs. I also make her food and that’s a whole ordeal of it’s own 😂 The things we do for our pets is amazing. Great snow day video, loved it❤

Linda - Each year I am more in love & infatuated with winter! Being indoors, warm & cozy, & viewing the winter weather outdoors is so satisfying & heartwarming. Getting out & playing in the snow takes me right back to my childhood - I really look forward to annual ski resort vacations with sledding, snowmobiling, skating, & bunny slopes. I’ve begun to use these winter months to go through my home carefully & purge anything I no longer want/need - donating many items or gifting things to loved ones that I know they’ll cherish. My favorite seasons are now Autumn, Spring & Winter. Summer’s blasting heat has allocated it to 4th place for me. Very enjoyable video - you accomplished so much!

You can perk up herbs and greens by rinsing in "warm water" and wrapping in paper towels and refrigerate. t works.

Planted paperwhites today , ty for reminding me ! Been meaning to give it a try for years , planted in my late moms antique clear glass short vase

The paperwhite basket looks charming. The soup looks yummy, especially with that sandwich. Lucky Willow, homemade treats! Your kitchen looks so warm and cozy on a cold January day! Expecting snow today, let’s bundle up!

Thanks Linda...loved the story of January!

Your little stoneware casserole is called “Lily of the Valley”.

Loved your video today, so cozy and I love days like this also. Your home is so lovely!

Beautiful relaxing video Linda...I loved it!!

What a beautiful celebration to January, as I've gotten older I have learned to slow down and embrace every moment and celebrate the beauty in everthing. Such a productive day. Hi Willow!

Hi Linda, Just an fyi, if you put the Teddy’s peanut butter in the fridge you don’t have to keep mixing the oil back into it. Also it firms it up just a bit, but it’s still spreadable.

Alas no snow in the southern counties of England, thank you for sharing yours. I love it when the weather conspires against us and forces us to slow down. Soup looked yummy.

Always a joy to watch your videos! The soup looks delicious!

Lovely vlog Linda, I thoroughly enjoyed spending your snow day with you in your kitchen. Have a good week x

Linda thank you for another inspirational video… I will definitely try both recipes and I already enjoyed my paper whites! Now my tulips are blooming! I totally agree with savoring and embracing every season and every month! Have a wonderful week!

Darling, if you want a healthy protien source, simply make some bacon and eggs (cooked in the healthy bacon grease; of course!) There is nothing healthy in that shake; except maybe the blueberries. The shake packet is junk itself, and the spinach is FULL of oxilates...which are pretty much kidney killers! 😮 ❤

Amazing Video Linda. You are such an inspiration Thank You.

Loved this video, you nailed it, my friend!

TY for all of your ideas on growing bulbs!! I never knew how…. Everything you do is always beautiful! ❤

So many things I want to try 🤗 thanks for a great video👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

I think that what I like about January is the calm that comes after the busy Fall and holidays! You made such good use of the snowday! I can see how much Willow loved her treats! Plus that soup looked delicious! Enjoy the last few days of January!

I'm with you Linda I actually enjoy this time of year.I live in Wisconsin and right now it's snowing softly outside.Your soup looked wonderful.

When your new video pops up, I can’t wait to watch it. You just calm me down and I wished I had your talents. Looking forward to your “work Wednesdays”. Thank you for giving us a window into your world.

Good morning, Linda! I actually love the winter months for the reasons you mentioned. It is a cozy, rainy day here in CT. I love to cook, bake and read in the winter months! Have a great day!! ❤

I also love a snow day at home❄️❄️ Lovely video! Your soup looks yummy!

That thrifted top looks really good on you! And your roasted tomato soup looks yumster, and obviously Willow has a pampering mama.....glad she is enjoying her treats that you baked for her!

Pop the stem off, and you can still use the ends of the peppers

"It's time to get our energy back and renew our souls"...so wise. I love your videos Linda!

It's great seeing Willow. Have a good week Linda.

Love seeing Willow enjoying her treats. The soup looks delicious…especially good this time of year. January is usually hard for me but this year I’ve read the month away. Looking forward to your consignment finds.

Thank you, Linda, for making my time on the Stairmaster much more enjoyable! I love watching all of your projects come together. Have a great week! ❤

Yum! Soup looks fabulous. What a great reminder on how enjoy January. I think I will try some of your ideas!!!

You've had a busy AND productive day! Such a lovely video, especially for a dreary day we're having here in New Jersey. Looking forward to Wednesday's video. BTW, I love the pretty ribbon around the basket. Cheers!

Linda, that soup looks absolutely scrumptious 😅I love January also❤I actually enjoy cold where I can sit by the fire and my sweet little doggie,Amy snuggles in my lap.

Loved this video.... Your creativity is wonderful, and that basket is fabulous..I am a basket person..love the long videos... so relaxing on a Sunday. ❤

What a treat to watch this. And how right you are - its good to be mindful of the things that bring us simple pleasures in such an austere season. Thank you for sharing the recipe - I'm going to try it.

Wow! I'm going to make these dog treats. I've spent so much on treats, this will save me money! Thank you for the inspiration.

Thank you for your wide words and inspiration😍 You always lift my spirits ! I'm grateful for your channel ❤

Linda, you are my happy place! Thank you so much for all of your wonderful videos, I’ve gotten so much inspiration from you. I also fell in love with your Caraway cookware so my hubby got me a set for Christmas and I absolutely love them!!!🥰🥰🥰

Thank you on your step by step instruction with the baking and paperwhites. Very helpful with good tips, especially with the natural peanut butter. I previously have overlooked your wooden vertical dish stand inside the cabinet. Prevents damage. Enjoyed Willow's cameo performance and treats meet approval!

Lovely....I can almost smell your soup from here! I make roasted tomato soup in the summer with the garden tomatoes and basil I grow. I then freeze it in zip lock bags and enjoy all winter long. My paper white are in full bloom. I purchased enough this winter to give away and to also enjoy all winter until the daffodils come up in mid April.

Glad you got to have a girl day with Carla! That’s one of my favorite things to do. Spend the day with a friend & go thrifting, lunch & just enjoy the day. Blessing’s from Bethlehem, New Hampshire!❤

Willow has the best mom!

Excellent video Linda. Thank you for sharing. Really enjoyed the dog cookies info. Definitely going to try to make these for my lil dog. Have a wonderful week.

I love January with the snow, cold and cloudy sky’s. ❄️

Really enjoyed this video!! I love all the different things you were involved in.. My favorite channel ....

Hi Linda, I really appreciate your videos and I know what's on the menu today!I just picked up a block of havarti and cheeder for grilled cheese and usually do tomato soup.Love your recipe for it.Also Willow approved dog treats will be something to try too!Theirs something about Jan&Feb of slowing down resting for the season ahead,i have been working on mapping gardens out and building a high tunnel this yr.I think it's important in the way things are to settle down and take it a day at a time and enjoy the day .I love looking out your windows and seeing the beautiful flag and landscape i come back and rewatch your videos to relax! Have a wonderful day and week ahead.🕊️💚

Morning Linda, I really like the basket so different. Also loved the little squirrel you posted on Instagram with the basket. My paper whites have started to grow outside. We will see, we had 2 days of ice here in southeast Louisiana. I love the sales that take place in January. Will try the treats. Thank you enjoy your Sunday. Huge Willow.

Soup sounds delicious!!

Linda, thank you for another great video. I always enjoy your content and creative ideas. I agree with your final inspirational words, "Enjoy and embrace each season, each day, and live life to the fullest." Looking forward to your next video. God bless your "kindred spirit". Robert.

Great video! Thank you Linda!

Thank you Linda for sharing the tip about how you wash your blender when you’re done with it. I will definitely try this. I enjoyed your video as always and I would like to someday try planting some paper whites and I will be trying to make some of your dog treats as well, treats are expensive to buy especially the healthy ones.

Beautiful use for that basket.....I should have kept it. LOL, just kidding! I will definitely be trying those dog treats for Jack, I love knowing exactly what ingredients are in the treats and how easy! Thank you for sharing your Snow Day with us.

Fun day and projects🥰

I love my vitamix. Such a heavy duty monster of a machine.

Hi Linda! I enjoyed this video and totally agree we should enjoy every season! I find winter a time to rest my gardening bones and enjoy cooking delicious meals and drumming up new ideas for the garden. See you in the next one! Hugs! :)

Lovely informative and relaxing video. FYI while harvesting my basil in the fall, I covered a wide-mouth jar with 2 layers of waxed paper , secured with elastic band, cut many slits just wide enough to insert a slip of basil, filled with water and inserted basil. That was early November, basil rooted and is thriving in water still.

Oh my goodness, Teddie peanut butter! ❤ My parents used to buy it in the metal pail (we had a large family). 😂

Linda what a great vidio.Great idea for dog treats. My fury friend would love treats like this.Really enjoy all of your vidios andlook forward to the next ones. Stay well .

I like that I get to stay in my cozy warm house and just have some down time. It is a month to rest. As always I enjoyed the video so much.❤

I am going to try the treats. I have a sweet Beagle who loves his treats. This is much more healthier than purchasing them. The soup looks delicious. Thank you for sharing.

Such an enjoyable video as always! The pumpkin dog treats will be on my to do list today!

Garlic plants are very heavy feeders. Fertilize well.

It was a long time coming to enjoy January, but worth the effort. I now read more meditate & appreciate the beautiful snow.

Very enjoyable video 😊. January has always been one of my favourites. Anyone who has raised a family knows Sept 1 to Jan 1 busiest and most costly time of year : back to school, sports and activities , Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas always tapped me out physically and financially when our kids where younger. January is the rest we all need after the fall season in so many ways and love all those indoor “January jobs” that I can finally get to in my house, the baking etc and then fire and Lindas videos in the evening! Whats not to love😊 Suggestion . I went plastic wrap free about 3 years ago, so much unnecessary and harmful waste. I too used it endlessly to wrap everything till the light finally came on , “what am I doing “! This stuff is horrible for the environment !! I have used less than 1 box in 3 years, I converted to reusable glass or many ,many use plastic containers and discovered beeswax as an excellent option . Linda you have a big voice and so many follow your lead . It is obvious you also love Mother Earth and all her beauty . Consider occasional subtle yet important initiatives into your much loved videos to spread the word to treat our homes, our souls and OUR PLANET with love and tender care. If we all just make some little easy changes........

Loved this video. Am going to make Eleanor (corgi) some healthy dog treats. Soup looks delicious. My favorite is the paper whites in the basket with branches. Thank you so much Linda!

Here in Minnesota,our ground is bare of snow,a rare Winter here! I do miss that beautiful solace of Winter, snow capped Hydrangeas,the shawl of snow on my many concrete statuaries. I become creative in other ways,other than Garden design,I read a lot ,rearrange rooms,empty chest of drawers, and discard the old. And I watch my Linda Smith videos to relax and acquire new ideas and hints. Thank you Linda 🥰

This is perfect. I spent Thur - Sat morning making big pots of soup to freeze. First day I made cauliflower, second was yellow squash and third was pot roast leftovers, which is particularly easy. I was contemplating what my next soup would be. I've always loved to cook big, so cooking to freeze allows me a reason to thoroughly enjoy myself in the kitchen. Thanks for my Monday morning soup recipe, Linda. How do you always know what's on my mind? 😘

I love your philosophy about January. I agree that it should be a little more restful since we've been a bit busier for the holidays. I declared January a month of rest and the Lord blessed me to be able to stay home two weeks!! I had a cold and missed church, then it snowed twice and church was canceled. It was glorious to stay home and give myself permission to not do much. 🙌 The tomato soup looks delicious and i really should make my dog some homemade treats. 😊 Thank you for another great video.

That looked like a delightful snow day! I agree with you on more tomatoes and less sugar..also try roasting them without covering at all and with a splash of a good balsamic..have it with a good gruyere grilled cheese. I just talked myself into that for dinner! The dog treats were adorable, as is Willow.